---
title: "2.13 while vs do-while"
description: "Both `while` and `do-while` loops repeat a block of code while a condition remains true. The main difference is when the condition is evaluated. ``` #include int main() { int i = 6; while (i"
url: "https://edcret.in/docs/c-programming/control-flow/2-13-while-vs-do-while/"
updated: "2026-09-06"
category: C Programming / Control Flow
---

# 2.13 while vs do-while

Both `while` and `do-while` loops repeat a block of code while a condition remains true. The main difference is when the condition is evaluated.

```
#include <stdio.h>

int main()
{
    int i = 6;

    while (i <= 5)
    {
        printf("while: %d\n", i);
    }

    do
    {
        printf("do-while: %d\n", i);
    }
    while (i <= 5);

    return 0;
}
```

### Example Output

```
do-while: 6
```

### Explanation

The `while` loop evaluates its condition before executing the body:

```
while (i <= 5)
```

Since `i` is `6`, the condition is false and the loop body does not execute.

The `do-while` loop evaluates its condition after executing the body:

```
do
{
    printf("do-while: %d\n", i);
}
while (i <= 5);
```

Therefore, its body executes once even though `i <= 5` is false.

| `while` | `do-while` |
| --- | --- |
| Condition checked before the body | Condition checked after the body |
| May execute zero times | Executes at least once |
| No semicolon after the condition | Semicolon required after the condition |